The J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa

Visiting scholars that plan to come to USD to teach, lecture, conduct research, observe, consult, train, or demonstrate special skills within the duration of their visit are usually brought in under the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa. The following criteria are required for a prospective scholar to receive a J-1 eligibility document (form DS-2019):

An official invitation from the host department, explicitly stating the scholar’s expected activities while at USD. The letter should also clearly indicate the scholar’s program dates (start date and end date), in which the scholar is expected to perform and complete their expected activities and accomplish their research objectives.
Proof of health insurance coverage that meets the Department of State’s standards as applied to J-1 exchange visitors.
1. Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness
2. Repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000
3. Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to his or her home country in the amount of $50,000
4. A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness.
A level of English proficiency¹ sufficient to carry out their designated program activities and operate in a primarily English-speaking environment. The following options are available for prospective scholars to demonstrate English proficiency:
If scholar is self-funded, they must demonstrate the ability to support their cost of living while physically in the United States².

Notes:

¹ Acceptable documents for establishing English proficiency:

A TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) report; report must not be older than 2 years
A letter from a previous employer or academic institution certifying that the applicant has worked or performed in an English speaking-capacity.
The scholar may request the host department to sign a DEPARTMENT ATTESTATION that indicates that the host department has had some experience working with the applicant in the past where they have demonstrated the ability to work or perform in an English-speaking environment without difficulty.

²Cost of living estimates for San Diego:

	Monthly (0 dependents), in US$
Food	333
Childcare	0
Medical	191
Housing	1599
Transportation	412
Other3	396
TOTAL	2930

A self-funded prospective scholar must be able to present evidence of funding equivalent to the total amount listed above, multiplied by the number of months in their program duration. For prospective scholars bringing dependents under their J-1 status, an additional $200/month per dependent must be added to the proof of funding calculation.

³(1) Apparel and services, (2) Housekeeping supplies, (3) Personal care products and services, (4) Reading, and (5) Miscellaneous. - 2020 Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey.

After the prospective scholar receives their Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa, they must now apply for a J-1 visa with the U.S. Consulate in their respective city of residence. For current procedures on how to apply for a US visa, please visit the Department of State website.